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By Joe Buscaglia

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Bills pick up fifth-year option on Dareus

by Joe Buscaglia,posted Apr 25 2014 6:48PM

When it comes to getting an extended look with Pro Bowl talent for a manageable cost, the decision for the Buffalo Bills was easy with defensive tackle and former third overall pick Marcell Dareus. The team had until May 3 to decide to use their fifth-year option on Dareus, and they announced on Friday that they will be exercising that option.

Dareus is heading into his fourth season in the league, and as a top 10 selection in the 2011 draft, will be due the same amount in 2015 as the transition tag for defensive tackles in the 2014 season. If on the roster in the new league year, Dareus will be owed $8.060 million in 2015.

Although he was reprimanded twice for tardiness by head coach Doug Marrone, Dareus had his most productive and consistent season by leaps and bounds. The 24-year old had a career high 71 tackles, 7.5 sacks and forced the first fumble of his career in 14 starts.

Dareus pairs with veteran Kyle Williams as one of the most talented and productive defensive tackle duos in the league. With the option year picked up, he is now set to become an unrestricted free agent in March of 2016 barring any unforseen circumstances.